Situated in a mountainous area at the confluence of the rivers Pambak and Dzoraget, at an elevation of 1250 meters above sea level, the village of Dzoragyugh was founded in 1804 by families who arrived here from Artsakh. The village derives its name from the Armenian words “dzor” (gorge) and “gyugh” (village). Initially, the village was located in the gorge, thus, the name, “a village in the gorge.” The village is home to two churches dating back to 12th-13th centuries and 19th century respectively.
Down in the gorge, in the area known today as Dzoragyugh Gardens, there is another medieval monastery known as Hnevank (‘Old Monastery’).
Dating back to 7th-12th centuries, this monastic complex once consisted of three churches, a narthex, and the living quarters․ At the further end of the valley, two cliffs rise high above the valley. Atop of these cliffs, remains of two medieval castles, known as “Kir u Akhper” (Brother and Sister) are situated.
Local lore has it that these castles were built by a brother and a sister coming from a noble family. The siblings often competed with each other, trying to prove their military skills. It is even said that they had a rope stretched between the two cliffs, which they used to transfer wine to each other.
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